Kirsten Allen
Mount Joy
Summary
Cardiac-focused new graduate RN candidate with 15+ years of patient-care experience as a CNA and PCT in acute care, long-term care, home care, and IDD support settings. Completed a 145-hour CTICU preceptorship caring for complex postoperative cardiac surgery patients under RN supervision, with exposure to telemetry, rhythm interpretation, EKG acquisition, hemodynamic monitoring, and chest-pain assessment. Known for strong work ethic, calm presence during urgent situations, and excellent collaboration with nurses and the interdisciplinary team. Seeking a new-grad RN role in Cardiac Step-Down, Telemetry, CTICU, CVICU, Progressive Care, or ED with strong cardiac focus.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Patient Care Technician – Senior
UPMC Harrisburg
11.2024 - Current
- Perform EKGs and support rhythm monitoring by promptly reporting abnormalities to RNs.
- Obtain and trend vital signs, monitoring for changes in blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and level of consciousness.
- Assist in the care of patients with CHF, AFib, chest pain, and other cardiac and high-acuity conditions.
- Support admissions and transfers by preparing rooms, assisting with patient orientation, and facilitating telemetry setup.
- Maintain a safe, organized environment and collaborate closely with nurses to prioritize patient needs.
Full-Time RN Student (Most Current)
UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing
08.2023 - Current
- Completed 145 hours of CTICU preceptorship caring for postoperative cardiac surgery patients (e.g., CABG, valve procedures) under direct RN supervision.
- Performed focused cardiac assessments, basic telemetry interpretation, and postoperative monitoring of vital signs, pain, drains, and lines.
- Assisted RNs in responding to changes in hemodynamic status and participated in urgent/emergent interventions.
- Administered medications under supervision, documented thoroughly in EMR, and reinforced patient and family education.
- Applied evidence-based practice and clinical judgment during simulations and clinical rotations in multiple acute-care settings.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Moravian Manor Communities
05.2024 - 11.2024
- Assisted residents with ADLs including bathing, grooming, dressing, and mobility.
- Monitored vital signs and reported changes promptly to licensed staff.
- Documented care activities accurately and followed infection-prevention protocols.
PCT – Senior
UPMC Harrisburg
09.2022 - 07.2023
- Inserted and removed IVs and urinary catheters according to unit protocols.
- Performed EKGs, collected specimens, and assisted with cardiac diagnostic workflows.
- Provided direct bedside care and documented interventions and observations in EPIC.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Masonic Villages of PA
01.2022 - 09.2022
- Provided nighttime care including toileting, repositioning, and safety rounding.
- Assisted with transfers and monitored residents for changes in condition.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Susquehanna Health and Wellness
04.2020 - 01.2022
- Provided full ADL support including dressing, feeding, toileting, and mobility.
- Obtained vital signs, performed postmortem care, and responded promptly to call lights.
Certified Nursing Assistant – IDD Support
Excentia
12.2018 - 04.2020
- Supported adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in semi-independent living.
- Assisted with ADLs, medications, transportation, and community activities.
- Built therapeutic relationships through consistent, compassionate communication.
Private Duty CNA
Private Duty In-Home Care
01.2010 - 02.2016
- Provided one-on-one in-home care including hygiene, mobility assistance, meal preparation, and medication support.
- Accompanied clients to appointments and social outings.
- Supported emotional well-being and promoted independence within each client’s abilities.
Education
Diploma - Nursing
UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing
Harrisburg, PA12-2025
Skills
- Dysrhythmia recognition (basic)
- Telemetry monitoring fundamentals
- 12-lead EKG acquisition & reporting
- Hemodynamic monitoring & trending
- Chest pain assessment & prioritization
- Post-op cardiac/CTICU exposure
- IV & urinary catheter insertion/removal
- Specimen collection
- EPIC / EMR documentation
- Admission & discharge support
- Infection control & isolation precautions
- Patient & family education
Timeline
Patient Care Technician – Senior
UPMC Harrisburg
11.2024 - Current
Certified Nursing Assistant
Moravian Manor Communities
05.2024 - 11.2024
Full-Time RN Student (Most Current)
UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing
08.2023 - Current
PCT – Senior
UPMC Harrisburg
09.2022 - 07.2023
Certified Nursing Assistant
Masonic Villages of PA
01.2022 - 09.2022
Certified Nursing Assistant
Susquehanna Health and Wellness
04.2020 - 01.2022
Certified Nursing Assistant – IDD Support
Excentia
12.2018 - 04.2020
Private Duty CNA
Private Duty In-Home Care
01.2010 - 02.2016
Diploma - Nursing
UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing